How to Fly With a Dog: Tips for Toronto Dog Owners
Flying with a dog means choosing the right carrier or IATA-approved crate, arriving with extra buffer time, and knowing your airline’s pet policy before you book. Here’s a complete, Toronto-focused walkthrough — from picking a carrier to what happens at YYZ security.
Choosing the Right Carrier
The first step in flying with your dog is choosing the right carrier. Your carrier should be:
If your dog is small enough for the cabin, a soft-sided carrier that fits under the seat works well. Larger dogs travelling as checked baggage or cargo need a rigid, IATA-approved crate that meets the International Air Transport Association’s Live Animal Regulations — standard pet-store crates are often rejected at check-in.
- Large enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably
- Well-ventilated with plenty of air holes
- Leak-proof and easy to clean
- Approved by the airline you’re flying with
Most airlines require that your carrier fits under the seat in front of you if your dog is traveling in the cabin. If your dog is too large to fit in a carrier under the seat, they may need to travel in the cargo hold.
Preparing Your Dog for Travel
Before you fly with your dog, it’s important to prepare them for the experience. Here are some tips:
- Get your dog used to their carrier by letting them spend time in it at home
- Take your dog on short car rides in their carrier to get them used to the motion
- Make sure your dog is up-to-date on all vaccinations and has a health certificate from your vet
- Consider giving your dog a mild sedative if they are anxious or prone to motion sickness (consult with your vet first)
At the Airport
When you arrive at the airport with your dog, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Arrive at least 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international flight — pet check-in requires an in-person agent, not a kiosk
- Take your dog to the designated pet relief area before boarding the plane
- Keep your dog in their carrier at all times, except when going through security
- Be prepared to pay any pet fees required by the airline
On the Plane
Once you’re on the plane with your dog, here are some tips for a smooth flight:
- Keep your dog in their carrier under the seat in front of you
- Offer your dog small amounts of food and water during the flight
- If your dog is in the cargo hold, ask a flight attendant to confirm that they have been loaded onto the plane
- If your dog is anxious or restless, try covering their carrier with a blanket to help them feel more secure
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my dog in the cabin with me?
Most airlines allow small dogs to travel in the cabin if they fit in a carrier under the seat in front of you. Check with your airline for specific requirements.
How much does it cost to fly with a dog?
Fees vary by airline and route. Air Canada’s in-cabin pet fees run roughly CA$50-120 for domestic/transborder flights and CA$100-120 for international routes, with checked baggage or cargo costing more — see our full Air Canada pet policy breakdown for the exact figures, or confirm directly with your airline.
What if my dog is too large to fit in a carrier under the seat?
Large dogs travel as checked baggage or via cargo in a rigid, IATA-approved crate — not a soft carrier. See our guide to choosing an IATA-approved airport kennel for sizing and ventilation requirements before you buy one.
Do I need any special documents to fly with my dog?
Yes, you will need a health certificate from your vet and proof of vaccinations.
Can I sedate my dog for the flight?
Most veterinarians and airlines advise against sedating a dog for air travel, since sedatives can affect breathing and blood pressure at altitude. If sedation is medically necessary, talk to your vet first and confirm your airline’s policy — many restrict it or require it to be declared.
What if my dog has to go to the bathroom during the flight?
Most airports have designated pet relief areas. Try to take your dog there before boarding the plane.
Can I take my dog out of their carrier during the flight?
No, your dog must remain in their carrier at all times, except when going through security.
What if my dog barks or whines during the flight?
Try covering their carrier with a blanket to help them feel more secure. You can also offer them small treats or toys to keep them occupied.
Can I bring food and water for my dog on the plane?
Yes, you can bring a small amount of food and water for your dog. Offer them small amounts during the flight.
What if I need help with my dog’s travel arrangements?
Consider using a pet relocation service like Your Dog Butler. We can help with everything from transportation to the airport to booking flights and arranging for pet-friendly accommodations.
Are there temperature restrictions for flying a dog?
Yes, for pets travelling as checked baggage or cargo. Air Canada, for example, will not accept pets in the hold at all from December 18 to January 4, and no cats or dogs under 4.5 kg travel in the hold between November 1 and March 31. Check your specific airline’s seasonal embargo dates before booking.
Let Us Help With Your Pet Travel Arrangements
At Your Dog Butler, we understand that flying with a dog can be stressful. That’s why we offer pet relocation services to make the process as easy and stress-free as possible. Our team of experienced pet handlers will work with you to create a custom travel plan for your furry friend, ensuring their safety and comfort every step of the way.
Whether you need a pet taxi in Toronto to get your dog to the airport or help with booking flights and arranging for pet-friendly accommodations, we’ve got you covered. We pride ourselves on providing top-notch service and ensuring that every pet we work with receives the best possible care.
We offer pickup across the GTA — including North York, Scarborough, Etobicoke, Mississauga, and Brampton — direct to Toronto Pearson.
So if you’re planning to travel with your dog in Toronto, don’t hesitate to reach out to Your Dog Butler. Let us help with your pet travel arrangements and give you peace of mind knowing that your furry friend is in good hands.
